If you’ve been paying attention to the new releases from NITECORE, you probably noticed many of the newest flashlights are powered by li-ion batteries. In , the LED flashlight industry began the transition to this larger size battery (both physically and in energy capacity) and you can expect to see the trend continue throughout and beyond.
Let’s start at the beginning and talk about what the battery is. Those of you who’ve been around the LED flashlight world probably recognize s as the “gold standard” for flashlight batteries. Long heralded for their compact size and optimal energy density, these lithium ion batteries power some of the brightest, longest running flashlights and are rechargeable to boot!
Much like an cell, a “ battery” is short-hand for a rechargeable, lithium ion battery that is 21 mm in diameter and 70 mm long. As more electronic devices are moving to li-ion batteries as a power source, this size cell first became popular in electric cars like Tesla and electric scooters.
The big advantage of a battery over an battery is the overall energy capacity possible. Battery capacity, measured in milliamp hours or mAh on an was limited to about mAh because of the size.
By increasing the overall length and diameter slightly, a battery is able to reach a maximum capacity of mAh – a 42% increase. For flashlight users, this translates to longer runtimes on a single charge, something that is invaluable for heavy users. And because the diameter is still under 1”, flashlights using these batteries are still capable of fitting in standard 1” weapon mounts and holsters!
You might be wondering, “Can I still use my batteries?” in the new -powered flashlights. The answer is yes … and no. From a chemistry and voltage standpoint, there is no reason an battery won’t work in your -size flashlight. Where you will run into trouble though is making a solid connection — batteries are simply too short and narrow.
We understand that not everyone is ready to switch to the latest technology and some of you have invested some serious money in your battery collection. If you want to still use your batteries, look for battery flashlights that include an battery magazine like the NEW P12. This special adapter will make up for the extra length and diameter and allow you to use either size battery in your flashlight interchangeably.
Due to the extra length and diameter of batteries, some older chargers won’t be compatible with this size battery. Have no fear, there are several options available so you don’t need to sink a lot of money into a new charging solution. Here’s a look at your options.
This is an ideal choice for heavy users who can’t afford to tie up their flashlight waiting for it to charge or need to charge more than one battery at a time. If this sounds like you, try one of these -ready chargers from NITECORE.
Ever wondered what powers your , electric vehicle, or even your flashlight? The answer lies in lithium-ion batteries—small but mighty powerhouses that fuel our everyday tech. Among the most popular types are the , , and batteries, each suited for different needs. But which one should you choose? Let’s dive in and explore the pros, cons, and best applications of each.
The battery is a widely used lithium-ion rechargeable battery, named for its size: 18mm in diameter and 65mm in length. The typically offers a capacity range of -mAh, with a nominal voltage of 3.6-3.7V.
Its versatility has made it a favorite among lithium-ion battery manufacturers and DIY enthusiasts alike. It is commonly found in many consumer electronics, such as laptops, flashlights, and vape devices. Thanks to its compact size and reliable performance, the has been a go-to choice for portable applications for over a decade.
Pros:
Cons:
Read more about the Advantages of the Battery here.
ACE Battery Cylindrical Cell
The battery is another type of lithium-ion battery, slightly larger than the , with dimensions of 21mm in diameter and 70mm in length. The boasts a capacity range of -mAh, with the same nominal voltage as its cousin. Its increased size allows for more active materials, resulting in higher capacity and better performance under load.
This battery type is designed to provide a higher energy density, which translates to more power and longer battery life. It is increasingly used in high-performance devices such as electric vehicles (EVs), power tools, and high-drain electronics.
Pros:
Cons:
The battery is a larger lithium-ion battery, measuring 26mm in diameter and 65mm in length. With a typical capacity range of -mAh, the is a beast when it comes to storing energy.
With its larger size, it offers even higher capacity than both the and batteries, making it suitable for energy-intensive devices. It is commonly used in high-power applications like electric bikes, large flashlights, and off-grid solar power systems. However, their larger size has limited their adoption in mainstream consumer electronics.
Pros:
Cons:
Each battery type – , , and – serves specific needs based on its size, capacity, and performance characteristics. Understanding these applications can help you decide which battery type suits your needs best. Let’s take a closer look at how each battery is used in various industries and consumer products.
The battery is the most commonly used lithium-ion battery, found in a wide range of applications, from consumer electronics to electric vehicles. Thanks to its compact size, it is ideal for devices where space is limited but performance is still critical.
Consumer Electronics:
Electric Vehicles (EVs) and E-Bikes:
While newer EVs and e-bikes use larger batteries, cells are still common in entry-level electric bikes and scooters due to their lower cost.
Flashlights and LED Lighting:
High-performance flashlights and other portable lighting systems often use batteries, providing reliable power in a compact form.
The battery has gained popularity due to its higher capacity and longer lifespan, making it a better fit for applications requiring higher power output. It’s increasingly used in industries like electric vehicles, power tools, and renewable energy systems.
Electric Vehicles (EVs):
Power Tools:
cells are becoming the standard in power tools (such as drills, saws, and lawn equipment) because they deliver higher power output and longer usage times, improving the overall efficiency of these tools.
Consumer Electronics:
The increased capacity of batteries also benefits devices like high-end laptops, power banks, and even some high-end flashlights. Devices that need extended battery life benefit from the higher energy density provided by these cells.
Renewable Energy Storage:
batteries are being used in home energy storage systems and solar power solutions. These systems need high-capacity batteries to store energy efficiently, and the offers a good balance between size and storage capacity for these applications.
The battery is the largest of the three, offering the highest capacity and longest lifespan. It’s often used in heavy-duty applications where size and weight are less of an issue, but long-lasting power is critical.
High-Performance Flashlights and LED Lighting:
High-powered flashlights and LED lighting systems for outdoor activities, military, and industrial use often employ batteries. Their large capacity ensures longer operation at high power levels, which is essential for these demanding applications.
Camping and Emergency Lights: These batteries are ideal for long-duration, off-grid lighting solutions, especially in emergency preparedness kits.
Electric Bicycles (E-Bikes):
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E-bikes and electric scooters that require more power and longer battery life rely on batteries. Their higher energy capacity ensures that these vehicles can go longer distances without recharging, making them perfect for commuters and long-distance riders.
Off-Grid Solar Systems and Energy Storage:
Off-grid energy solutions and solar power systems frequently use batteries for storing energy generated by solar panels. Their large capacity makes them ideal for storing power for homes, cabins, or RVs where access to the grid is limited or unavailable.
These batteries are also used in larger uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems and backup power systems to ensure reliable power storage.
Electric Tools:
Like power tools that require sustained, heavy power output, the battery is used in high-demand industrial tools and equipment. Its long cycle life and high capacity ensure that heavy machinery continues to perform efficiently.
Modeling and Robotics:
In hobbyist robotics and remote-controlled models, batteries are often used for high-powered applications, where long runtimes and strong output are necessary.
When deciding between the , , and batteries, there are several key factors to consider. Choosing the right battery depends largely on your specific application, required battery life, space constraints, and performance needs. Let’s break down these factors to help you make the best decision.
The first thing to think about when choosing a battery is the physical space available in your device or application. While all three battery types share similar cylindrical shapes, their size varies significantly.
Battery:
Battery:
Battery:
When choosing the right battery, consider how long you need the battery to last before needing a recharge. If longer battery life is essential, then larger capacity batteries like the and will be more suitable.
Battery:
Battery:
Battery:
If your device requires a lot of power at once—such as in power tools or electric vehicles—you’ll want a battery with a high discharge rate. Devices with high-drain applications need a battery that can discharge power quickly without overheating or losing efficiency.
Battery:
Suitable for low-to-medium power applications that don’t have a high instantaneous power demand. Great for laptops, vape pens, and some portable lighting solutions.
Battery:
Provides better performance in high-drain applications like electric vehicles, power tools, and electric scooters. It offers a higher continuous discharge rate compared to the , making it a popular choice for devices that need sustained high power output.
Battery:
The excels in high-drain applications due to its larger size and higher capacity. It is ideal for devices such as high-power flashlights, off-grid energy storage systems, and electric bikes that need a reliable, continuous power supply for extended periods.
The lifespan of a battery is measured in charge cycles—the number of times the battery can be charged and discharged before it starts to lose its efficiency. If longevity is important to you, consider how often you expect to recharge the battery.
Battery:
Typically lasts 300-500 cycles, which is sufficient for most casual use cases, such as laptops, portable devices, or power banks.
Battery:
Has a longer lifespan of 500-800 cycles, making it a better option for high-performance devices that require consistent power over a longer period, such as electric vehicles and solar power storage.
Battery:
Known for its impressive longevity, the battery can last 500- cycles, making it the most durable of the three. This is particularly useful in heavy-duty applications like off-grid solar systems, e-bikes, and high-performance flashlights where reliability is crucial.
Price is always a consideration when choosing a battery. While batteries are typically the most affordable, the and offer higher capacity and longer lifespan, making them a better investment for certain applications.
Battery:
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers who need reliable but less powerful batteries for everyday devices like laptops, power banks, and vape pens.
Battery:
Best for: Users who need a balance of cost and performance, such as in electric vehicles or high-drain devices where both long battery life and high power output are necessary.
Battery:
Best for: Applications that require maximum power and long-term durability, but where price is not the primary concern. This includes high-power flashlights, off-grid power systems, and electric bikes.
While all lithium-ion batteries have environmental impacts, it’s worth considering how each battery type is used and disposed of, especially for large-scale applications.
Battery:
Commonly used in consumer electronics with moderate environmental impact due to widespread use. Proper recycling is essential.
and Batteries:
Larger batteries like the and , due to their use in high-power systems like electric vehicles and off-grid energy, may have a more significant environmental footprint. However, they are more efficient and last longer, reducing the frequency of replacements.
For more information, please visit What Is a Battery.